The entire NFL is getting reacquainted with the Minnesota Vikings, and many of them are getting acquainted with each other. The team that’s entering 2017 is recognizable in some areas, but in others, it couldn’t be more different from the same one a year ago.

Losing one of the greatest players in franchise history will do that. So will a catastrophic injury to the franchise quarterback, and a shakeup on and off the field triggered by that injury. The Vikings are going to look a lot different post-Adrian Peterson and, for the time being, post-Teddy Bridgewater.

They have to. Between that and the rapid decline after their 5-0 start last season, they have no choice. Here is where things are changing as the end of minicamp season approaches.

“We understand it’s a tough deal,” said Freeney, who was on the losing side of Super Bowl 44 with the Indianapolis Colts. “That’s the worst feeling you’ll ever have. But if we believe what we preach and are there for each other, we’ll get knocked down sometimes but get back up.”

Freeney and the Falcons know he isn’t at the same elite level from when he posted the bulk of his 122.5 career sacks, a total that has him ranked behind only Julius Peppers (143.5) among active NFL leaders. But his impact in Atlanta went far beyond the three sacks and 10 tackles Freeney produced as a rotational player in 2016.

“He was telling me, ‘I used to use you on Madden and grew up watching you as a player,'” said Freeney, referring to the popular NFL video game.

“He was starting to make me feel real old. But he also said he can’t wait to Cheap Jerseys MLB With Free Shipping be a part of that. He sounded like he was passionate. Hopefully, I’ll be there to Cheap Jerseys Paypal Payment help.”